Closure of govt. offices extended to June 8

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has extended the duration of the previously announced government office closure in greater Male’ area by another one week.

According to an announcement by the President’s Office, the duration of the previous directive, set to expire this Tuesday, has been extended to June 8.

With the decision, government offices in Male’, Hulhumale’, Vilimale’, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu will remain closed until June, with employees working from home as necessary.

President’s Office said that despite the closure of offices, a minimum number of employees will be allowed to attend offices to ensure all essential services continue uninterrupted, with authorization from relevant minister or head of an office or institution.

Government offices have been instructed to provide public services online where possible.

President Solih urged in his directive for government employees to adhere to Health Protection Agency (HPA)’s instructions to curb the spread of COVID-19.

President’s Office said that despite the decision to close government offices, the period will not be treated as government holidays.

The decision to extend the closure of government offices comes with new restrictions in the Maldivian capital set to kick-in on Wednesday, May 26. This includes a curfew from 16:00-08:00 hours, and ban on going out even during non-curfew hours unless with a permit. Each household will be issued two residential permits.

Health Protection Agency (HPA) has also urged private sector employees to be allowed to work from home, as Maldives battles its worst surge in COVID-19 cases.